Pcr detection of Leptospira DNA in rodents and insectivores from Tanzania

The true prevalence of leptospirosis in Tanzania is unknown or underestimated. In this study we report on the prevalence of leptospirosis in Morogoro, Tanzania, by PCR detection of leptospiral DNA in 27 kidneys of rodents (Mastomys spp, Rattus spp, and Mus spp) and insectivores (Crocidura spp). The PCR study complemented previous attempts to isolate the leptospires and to perform seroprevalence by the microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Results of this Study indicated ail overall detection rate of 11\% by PCR, 7.4\% by isolation and 0\% by the MAT. Based on our analysis, it is recommended to use PCR and isolation for the detection of leptospires in potential host animals.